Yield: 6 servings

1 star anise (plus 5 more for garnish, if desired)
2 cinnamon sticks (plus 6 more for garnish, if desired)
1 pinch nutmeg
1 pear, peeled, cored and cut into 6 wedges
1 cup apple juice
1 bottle Merlot wine
1 cup of sugar

1. Place all the ingredients in a 4-quart pot over medium-low heat.

2. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Simmer for 15 minutes.

3. Remove, add a pear to each mug and garnish with cinnamon stick and star anise if desired.

4. Fill the mugs with the warm spiced wine.